Thank you for the support. Finally, we now begin the last arc of this story!
Music Recommendation for the Second half of this chapter (You'll miss the true feeling if you don't listen): "THE RUMBLING" Attack on Titan Epic Original Theme by Samuel Kim & Rok Nardin (Available on Youtube)
Chapter 54
The Kage Summit
(Iwagakure)
Ohnoki had stood proudly at his master's side as the Second Tsuchikage welcomed leaders from across the world inside their strongest castle built upon the tallest mountain overlooking the great village of Iwagakure. The delegates were invited respectfully inside the war room and made to sit at their designated seats across a large and well polished wooden roundtable.
Proper refreshments had been served for each leader and their escorts as was the custom. Iwagakure's administrative ninjas had even taken great care to not make the most bitter nation leaders sit right beside each other, but having just stopped the Second Great Ninja War where virtually every nation took part in one or the other side...it was a doomed task.
At the start of this war, five great nations ruled the world alongside several smaller ones allied with different sides.
Now, they were down to the three great nations and four smaller ones.
Seven nations in total that would decide the fate of humanity for many decades to come.
Everyone inside his village and shinobi leadership knew about Ohnoki's desire to continue the war and see Konoha alongside Kirigakure learn their real place in the world. But the Second Tsuchikage, Lord Mu thought otherwise alongside the Earth nation's Daimyo himself. They were wary of their enemy's strength, especially the war prowess of the Fourth Mizukage.
It was why this Summit was organized by Iwagakure and every standing nation had been invited to be a part of it.
Their strategists believed it was the best possible option for them to arrive at an acceptable peace with the other nations now that all their allies had fallen. Even their enemies knew prolonging the war would have devastating consequences for everyone and had agreed to negotiations, even Kirigakure much to Ohnoki's surprise.
Maybe Lord Mu had truly seen something which he hadn't...and in the event he was proven wrong, Ohnoki had been entrusted with their backup plan of action which he had executed perfectly with some unexpected help.
He could not help but smile when he saw Hiruzen Sarutobi-The Third Hokage walking towards them alongside his escort-Tobirama Senju-the Second Hokage, Mito Uzumaki-The Nine Tails Jinchuuriki, and Bunpuki-the former Sand Jinchuuriki of the One Tailed Beast now under Konoha's service.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Lord Mu" said Hiruzen with as much confidence as he could muster, even offering his hand to the older Tsuchikage...a gesture which was accepted and returned by the masked Kage after a very long look at his younger counterpart.
"Welcome to Iwagakure" said Mu guardedly, but his tone held the required respect.
The Second Tsuchikage surprised his own men by walking forward and actually offering his hand to Tobirama which the pale skinned Senju shook cautiously.
''It's been quite sometime since we met last, Lord Tobirama. And you grow even more beautiful with every passing day, Lady Mito" said Mu, as he then kissed Mito's hand earning a shrewd look from the redhead.
"And you're as ambitious and cunning as ever, Lord Mu" replied Mito sharply,
Ohnoki bristled at the subtle insult but his Kage laughed it out before acknowledging the Sand Jinchuuriki with words of condolence for his fallen nation and Kazekage. The Monk simply nodded and remained silent much to Mu's ire as he had expected some sort of reaction from a former ally now turned prisoner.
Hiruzen and Ohnoki exchanged a glance and the Iwagakure Jounin couldn't help but offer a firm nod earning a relieved smile from the Third Hokage as their party was escorted inside the war room by other Iwagakure ninjas.
The next was the leader of Amegakure (Hidden Rain Village)- Hanzo Salamander who much to Ohnoki's surprise was quite a courteous man whom even the Tsuchikage had pleasant words with before being escorted inside.
The Hidden Grass village was next as its Kage-Yosuke Meiji exchanged just a curt handshake and basic pleasantry with the Tsuchikage, a clear representation of their former ally's changed attitude now that the war situation had developed contrary to Iwagakure's promises. They had fought for Iwa and had now lost half their territory to Konoha's retaliation.
Ohnoki spotted the lone exception to a Summit full of ninjas as Mifune of the Samurai exchanged a respectful bow before the Tsuchikage-one which the Kage returned in equal respect. Frankly, Ohnoki doubted why the Samurai were even invited but the Earth Daimyo felt they deserved the honor despite being weaker than shinobi and being heavily outnumbered. It was the highest honor a sect of warriors without a nation could gain...more than what they deserved if Ohnoki was being honest.
Followed by Mifune came the leader of their closest and strongest standing ally-Land of Waterfalls. It's First Kage-Kakuzu was scary looking and the tallest man Ohnoki had ever seen. It was rumored the man had went up against Hashirama Senju in the previous war in single combat and lived, a feat very few shinobi except Madara Uchiha could boast about. When the Takikage looked down at him due to Ohnoki's smaller frame, the young shinobi felt a shiver across his entire body when those green malice ridden eyes saw right through him. Definitely a shinobi he wanted to avoid in battle, thankfully their nations were close allies facing the mutual threat of Kirigakure.
Only two more national leaders left to arrive- Uzushiogakure and Kirigakure.
One was a staunch ally of Konoha which was rumored to be undergoing a secret civil war surprisingly, while the other was the biggest threat to Ohnoki and his nation's very existence.
If only he had the power to obliterate them both from the annals of history...
Any further thoughts didn't come to his mind when he spotted a trio of kunoichi's approaching towards them. Unlike the other nations who had fully utilized the allowed limit of a Kage being escorted by three supporters, this new group was a member short. And unlike the other delegations that had slim to none kunoichi's in their escort for the Summit, this group was made up of women completely.
Even Lord Mu looked as if he had seen a ghost from the past when he saw a stunning blonde leading the group. Granted, she was one of the most beautiful women even Ohnoki had ever seen with her unblemished pale skin, tall and slender figure and long blonde hair but it was her uniform and the Uzukage's hat that left him speechless alongside his mentor.
"Inoue Namikaze...I thought you had died in the First War, the Raikage assured me of that personally" said Lord Mu in barely concealed shock, earning a cunning smile from the blonde woman.
"I am very much alive and well. The Second Uzukage at your service" said Inoue sarcastically, making one of her bodyguards chuckle.
"Namikaze?" asked Ohnoki with barely concealed hatred, some of his killing intent leaking out earning a murderous wrath in return from the Uzukage's escort, particularly from the younger redhead whom her leader had to reign in with an admonishing look.
"Kushina, no need to be rude to our hosts unnecessarily. Let's not lose our manners" warned Inoue in an icy cold voice,
Ohnoki flinched as the female Uzukage gave him a sharp look that made his heart skip a beat out of sheer terror for those eyes reminded him so much of a certain Mizukage.
"Commander Reika, I am tired from our long journey. Lord Mu, shall we get some refreshments please?" asked Inoue calmly,
The stunned Tsuchikage got out of his stupor and quickly agreed to the request directing his other subordinates to escort the Uzu delegation inside.
As soon as they were gone, Ohnoki looked at his mentor and Kage sharply.
"Lord Mu, this is-"
"Shut your mouth, Ohnoki. Do not mess with that woman if you know what's best for you...we will deal with her in time" ordered Mu strictly, earning a nod from his student quickly.
As the young Jounin actually looked at the bingo book, he flinched even more upon reading some of the past exploits of this new Uzukage. The fact that she had destroyed an entire Kumogakure battalion that also had shinobi twisted with the chakra of tailed beasts single handedly was a testament to her prowess.
More importantly, this directly changed a lot of things but Ohnoki didn't get much time to think over the consequences when the final delegation arrived a few minutes later.
It was clearly visible from the way the Iwa shinobi manning the castle's walls and inner courtyard froze in their spots as a commanding and very much intimidating chakra signature entered. Around him were not three but four Jinchuuriki making his total number of group members higher than permissible limit.
In the very entrance itself, the Fourth Mizukage was making his presence felt much more than any other Kage before him.
Ohnoki couldn't help but see the striking resemblance the man shared with the new Uzukage with his pale skin, smooth golden blonde hair and the same piercing blue eyes. It actually confirmed something which he had refused to believe earlier. The Mizukage was wearing his Jounin flak jacket and dark pants covered by a stark white haori with his title imprinted on the back. Around him were four fully armed Jinchuuriki, two from the fallen Kumogakure and two from Kirigakure-his wife Mei Terumi and the dethroned former Mizukage-Yagura Karatachi.
The man had an aura that commanded the attention of everyone around him and the looks which made quite a few kunoichi from Iwa itself steal glances only to receive a murderous look from the man's wife which made them look away quickly.
"Quite the entrance...Lord Fourth" said Mu carefully, displeasure evident in his tone not just at the man but also at his own men who had informed him that this man had left Kiri with three Jinchuuriki, when in secret he was bringing four.
"You broke protocol, Mizukage. We had agreed that each Kage could only bring three escorts, you brought one more than everyone else and a Jinchuuriki at that!" said Ohnoki scathingly, only to earn a cold smile so similar to that female Uzukage that it was haunting.
"I think it's only fair to bring in a little extra considering I am walking directly into a village we are yet to negotiate a peace treaty with. Besides I wanted dear Yugito to see the great Iwagakure in all its glory, are you telling me you are scared of one curious girl over the thousands of shinobi you have at your back here? Here I thought you had more courage and faith than that" taunted Naruto sweetly,
Mei and Yugito couldn't help but smirk on seeing Ohnoki bristle at that acidic remark while Yagura and Fukai observed the Second Tsuchikage giving a pointed look to his student before looking back at the Mizukage.
"We can set this aside, Lord Fourth. However for the sake of parity, one of your Jinchuuriki needs to stay in the guest quarters in this castle. If we allow you to bring more than allowed people with such dangerous powers at that...the other Kages would not take it lightly" warned Mu gently,
"Every nation including yours has every Jinchuuriki under their command inside that room. Mine will do the same or this Summit is over" challenged Naruto without a flinch,
"Are you that inflexible and used to breaking the established rules of conduct?" asked Mu with a heavy frown,
"The fact that I am here to negotiate should answer your first remark, Lord Second. And let's not debate about the rules of conduct because each of us would be proven guilty of failing that. If it's any consolation, I seek peace for my people but will not make unnecessary compromises, more than what I already have. In my place, you would have done the same damn thing and we both know it. So, What shall it be Lord Mu?" questioned Naruto in return, unwavering determination present in his hardened gaze which made Ohnoki clench his fists.
Unlike his enraged student, the Second Tsuchikage was impressed with what he had seen so far.
For all his faults and the threat he was to Mu's village, the Tsuchikage had seen more resolve in this man than any other Kage that he had met today.
Naruto Namikaze was different from the others, be it the battlefield or in times of peace. He could now understand what Gengetsu Hozuki had seen in the man that made the Second Mizukage choose this man as his successor over everyone else, including his own son and other ninja clan lords from Kirigakure. It led to a brutal civil war which this man won, the fact that he kept Yagura around as a trophy of his triumph made Mu respect him more.
After Hashirama and Tobirama Senju, he was the first person whom Mu was genuinely curious to interact with further.
"Very well. For the sake of a successful Kage Summit, we will allow this. I hope the other Kage's don't take too much offense to your brazenness" remarked Mu with a smirk,
"I'm right here to resolve those offenses should they arise" answered Naruto with a cunning smile, even as Mu ordered his subordinates to escort the Kiri delegation inside while ignoring his fuming student and focusing on the Mizukage's back.
With four Jinchuuriki's by your side, only a foolish Kage would like to challenge you openly so soon without substantial backup and you know it- Naruto Namikaze.
Tobirama Senju had gone deathly pale upon witnessing his former lover and mother of his son, Inoue Namikaze enter the war room alongside her two escorts. He was left even more speechless when the woman who was supposed to be dead gracefully walked forward and sat on the chair reserved for the Uzukage!
He was not the only one in this shock as the other Kages also were quite astonished for Hanzo Uzumaki had been the leader of Uzu ever since its existence.
On being questioned over it by the AmeKage who also happened to share the same first name as the previous Uzukage, Inoue answered simply with her usual friendly but sharp smile.
"Long story short, we felt a change was necessary at the top. A progressive one at that which ended up with the Uzumaki clan asking me to be the next Uzukage" said Inoue,
"They must be really desperate if they chose somebody not from their own clan and a woman at that to lead them! Has Uzu become so weak? Such a shame" mocked Kakuzu, the leader of the Land of Waterfalls.
"Says the bitch of Iwagakure. Hope Iwa's rocks aren't too hard for your watery asshole"
It took a moment for that remark to sink in before nearly everyone burst our laughing, except for Kakuzu who was livid as he unleashed his full killing intent making his bodyguards take up arms.
"Shut up, woman. Or I'll kill you" threatened Kakuzu furiously,
"Make me, bitch"
Mito gawked at the sheer ballsy attitude of the first female Kage of the shinobi world. A part of her wondered how she was alive and could only imagine it had something to do with Naruto's recent actions in Uzu.
Looking at the blonde beauty now, Mito clearly understood as to why she was the only woman Tobirama had ever loved and even had a child with. No one else could have gotten through to a stubborn man like him...
It was quite visible that Naruto had not only inherited his mother's looks, powers and most importantly a frightening courage.
In a room full of several Kage's and Jinchuuriki's, the former of whom were all men-Inoue Namikaze remained firm. Despite having the smallest army left among all nations, Uzu had a strong leader willing to defend its honor and people without hesitation.
"So this is the revolution that you planned, Naruto" thought Tobirama in disbelief,
He was alarmed when Kakuzu actually moved to attack the Uzukage making Hiruzen and the Senju clan head to get up from their seats swiftly alongside many others delegates.
A lone kunai was thrown by Inoue which Kakuzu dodged with a cocky smirk only to freeze the very next second when a cold kunai was placed at his neck and Inoue Namikaze stood behind him with an intimidating cold blue gaze boring into his very soul.
''I wonder how it feels to kill a Kage" she remarked murderously,
The other Kages inside the room had clearly seen the feared teleportation technique executed right before their eyes, the same as the Fourth Mizukage's and Tobirama Senju himself.
Even Kakuzu for all his rage and bravado took a few steps away from the woman as she placed the kunai back in her pouch even as her twin escorts had already detained the Takikagure ninjas swiftly.
Uzushiogakure had made its point...they were not to be underestimated by anyone.
In a world where power was everything, the dangerous display did its intended job as the other Kage's asked Kakuzu to maintain the decorum while asking Inoue to do the same, albeit with much more caution and respect.
She actually complied forcing Kakuzu to do the same alongside the escorts from both smaller nations backing off, as Inoue walked back to her seat she found Tobirama staring at her intensely making her pause and look at her former lover.
"It's been a long time" she whispered cordially,
Tobirama was still unable to say anything...how was one supposed to feel or react when the only woman you ever loved, the mother of your child, one who was supposed to be dead for so many years turned up before you very much alive?
Thankfully, he had Mito for such situations. His sister-in-law actually greeted her clan's new Kage with a friendly smile.
"It's truly historic that my clan chose a new leader and that too from someone outside our blood. Konoha looks forward to working with you, Lady Second" said Mito honestly,
"What happened to your predecessor?" asked Hiruzen rather sharply,
"He chose to retire, after all he was very old. It was difficult to inform our allies quickly considering the situation, I hope you understand Lord Third" answered Inoue calmly, but the edge in her voice was clear for Hiruzen to hear.
"What are your intentions, Lady Second?" he asked again seriously, ignoring Mito and Tobirama's heavy frowns alongside a sharp look from the new Uzukage.
"To safeguard Uzu's interests and future. As I'm sure every Kage is here to do for their own nation, including you" replied Inoue respectfully,
Before Hiruzen could say anything more, his mentor spoke for the first time.
"Why go so far?" asked Tobirama in a barely audible whisper, but his former lover did hear it even as the door to the war room opened once again.
"You'll never understand, Tobi"
The Second Uzukage had a faint smile upon her lips unlike every other Kage as they saw the Fourth Mizukage alongside his escort staring back at them from the entrance to the room and Tobirama watched the boy prove himself as this woman's son with his next words.
"Huh, and here I thought we were having a peace negotiation conference"
Every Kage inside the war room had already gotten up from their seats due to the earlier clash between two of their fellows and were now rooted in their spot when they saw the most fearsome of them all arrive.
Inoue couldn't help but secretly swell with pride as she saw the grudging respect every Kage showed her elder son swiftly with firm nods which the Fourth Mizukage returned with one of his own.
Despite being the second youngest Kage after Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Mizukage was the center of attention as he walked inside alongside his group of Jinchuuriki's.
At 27, Inoue's son had achieved more than any other Kage in this room. A fact which they all knew and acknowledged when none of them dared to take their seats until the Mizukage reached his own and looked at them all.
Tobirama could not help but remember his own deceased Elder Brother apart from Madara who were the only men to command such respect or fear without uttering a word among the shinobi world.
He didn't miss how proud and satisfied Inoue looked watching her son gain that invaluable respect even as everyone took their seats when the Mizukage took his own gracefully.
The Tsuchikage entered a few moments later alongside his escort which happened to be the Four and Five tailed Jinchuuriki alongside Ohnoki. Not surprisingly, Mu took up his seat at the center of the table much to the ire of the other Kages and a knowing smirk from Naruto who didn't say anything more.
"Now that we are all here and settled, let's get straight to the point without wasting any time" began Mu seriously,
Considering how two of their ranks had nearly came to blows earlier, the entire assembly of military leaders agreed with nods as none wanted to be here any more than necessary.
"I agree. What are Iwagakure's terms for surrender?" asked Naruto without a flinch, even as some of the smaller Kages did exactly that upon seeing Ohnoki bristle and Hiruzen to sigh. Thankfully, Mu simply narrowed his eyes at the blonde man.
"There shall be none. Iwa's allies may have fallen due to their incompetence in defending their own countries but our army still outnumbers every nation present in this room. Not to mention with our allies put together, we have even additional fighters alongside three Jinchuuriki to deal with our enemies. The only reason we agreed for this Summit was in the greater interest of the shinobi world and its future now that so many lives have already been lost" answered Mu with more grace than Naruto had imagined the man to be capable of.
"If Kiri and Konoha continue punitive actions against your faction, we not only outnumber you in men but also Jinchuuriki" warned Tobirama coldly, unwilling to let the Tsuchikage get away with making threats of any kind or making the other nations believe that he was more stronger than anyone else.
The Senju clan head's son was having the same thought as he looked directly at the Tsuchikage followed by everyone else.
"We don't even need to continue military conflict with you, together our two great nations alongside our allies constitute more than 60 percent of the world's population and nearly 70 percent of the global economy. If we sanction and blockade you together, your crumbling economy will collapse completely in months. No army despite its large size can fight on empty stomachs and even more emptier national coffers to finance their operations. You have lost and that is the reality, Lord Mu" said Naruto frankly,
"Such Arrogance! I would like to see this bravado when we crush you on the battlefield" warned Ohnoki in a fit of murderous rage,
"I'm sure the Raikage shared your feelings although he was twice your size and strength when he faced me in battle" taunted Naruto, making Inoue alongside few more Kage's chuckle.
"We are here to sue for peace, not more war!" reminded Mifune of the Samurai,
Even as Ohnoki and the other Kages bickered amongst each other, Mu's gaze was fixed firmly upon the one that would play a major role in deciding the future. Naruto Namikaze was silent and despite his favorable situation, Mu saw a shred of worry in those eyes.
After several long moments of continued bickering, Mu intervened and stopped everyone before looking back at the Mizukage.
"What do you want?" asked Mu straight forwardly,
"I do not want to continue this war for enough lives have already been lost and we all have bigger problems to face" answered Naruto,
"Bigger problems?" quizzed Mu in a curious voice,
"The reason why I am interested in ending this war apart from the lives already lost and the sheer destruction that has happened is the existence of a threat that concerns us all. One that is steadily marching towards our world even as we continue fighting against each other. The Otsutsuki" explained Naruto seriously,
Upon seeing that he had the attention of the entire assembly, the Fourth Mizukage got up from his seat and walked towards the center of the room so that everyone could see him.
"Thousands of years ago when mankind was still in its infancy and engaged in endless wars amongst themselves, they failed to notice that our world was marked by another faction. One not native to this Earth" explained Naruto,
"Nonsense! Are we seriously listening to this?" asked Ohnoki in disbelief, earning a firm nod from Kakuzu.
"Continue, Mizukage" said Mu without a flinch,
"But Lord Second-" began Ohnoki, only to receive a threatening glare from his master which made him clench his fist and regain his silence.
"The Otsutsuki are a race of parasites who while having form similar to humans somewhat in appearance are unlike us in everything else. They are beings that harvest chakra from the worlds they mark and destroy the native populace in it forever. While mankind waged wars, two of the Otsutsuki arrived here to plant a Divine Tree. A mechanism through which they suck the very lifeforce of our world alongside those of every living being on this planet overtime to give birth to a fruit of unimaginable power which the Otsutsuki then consume to increase their power and sustain their near immortal lifespan. However, this time their plans went awry when one of their own members from the pair which they sent to our planet got attached to humanity and this world. Her name was Kaguya Otsutsuki who betrayed and killed her fellow partner, consumed the divine fruit herself gaining unimaginable power that allowed her to end all wars between humanity in a year itself. Instantaneous peace"
Mu was intrigued as he continued listening because instead of just speaking, the Fourth Mizukage was using a mild genjutsu to make everyone actually see a narrated visual of the events. The man sure had a way of connecting with people...
"However absolute power corrupts and Kaguya soon turned into a tyrant as she constantly feared her clansmen taking action against her for betraying them and choosing this world alongside humanity. Her reign turned into one of terror where she tried to suppress anyone to death if they posed any kind of threat to her defense of this world against the Otsutsuki. She started preparing an army to face her clansmen when they eventually arrived, in time she would have two sons with whom she shared her chakra. But things continued to worsen until the very people Kaguya swore to protect started hating and fearing her, she became cruel beyond redemption ultimately leading her own sons to revolt against her tyranny. Enraged, she merged with the Divine Tree to take the form of the Ten Tails and recapture the chakra she shared with her sons. After months of brutal conflict, the sons defeated their mother and sealed her away. The Elder son whom we now know as the Sage of Six Paths became the Jinchuuriki of the Ten Tails to prevent it from destroying our world. His younger brother moved to the moon to watch over the husk of the Ten Tails and the final resting place of their mother. The Sage of Six Paths taught ninshu to humanity in the hopes of uniting us all through co-operation and the power of chakra.
But he failed and at the end of his life, he distributed the Ten Tails into nine tailed beasts to suppress its power forever. At his deathbed from his own two sons, he chose the younger one to be his successor which started a conflict between his two sons which transformed into the Clan Wars Era for 3,000 years. The elder son's descendants came to be known as the Uchiha clan, whereas the younger son's descendants branched into the Senju and Uzumaki clans. Even the Kaguya clan in Kirigakure and Hyuga clan from Konoha are related to the Sage's family through either his direct descendants or those of his brother. The Clan Wars Era came to an end when the Sage's descendants namely the Uchiha and Senju put aside their differences for peace making others do the same in time. However, this only led to momentary peace until the ninja villages started fighting amongst themselves for more power"
When the genjutsu ended and the visions came to an end, not one Kage was left unmoved as an eery silence stretched across the war room.
"What is the proof of this story? And how does this relate to the Otsutsuki threat you said we face?" asked Ohnoki in a much subdued voice than before,
"Plenty of proof, Ohnoki. The first one is the Uchiha Stone tablet in the possession of said clan in Konoha where their founder has etched this story for his descendants. Even the Senju and Uzumaki clans have some version of this history with themselves as do the Kaguya and Hyuga to an extent. More importantly, a comrade of mine actually found an Otsutsuki cave where we discovered more proof of this threat and our history" explained Naruto patiently,
Tobirama narrowed his gaze as he knew this comrade of the Mizukage was none other than Madara Uchiha, a man whom not a single Kage in this room would trust should his existence and collaboration with Naruto become known.
"As to how the Otsutsuki are a threat to us all now...they are here or atleast their Scouts are. My comrade and I faced one of them and killed him as he tried to capture Kirigakure's Jinchuuriki to get the tailed beasts inside of them" lied Naruto, omitting the fact that the Scout had actually been after the Gedo Statue in Madara's possession.
As part of his Spy training, he had been taught that a good lie always had a shred of truth as well as faleshoods mixed together to lend credence to a story.
More importantly, with every Jinchuuriki of the world present in this room and the Kage's controlling them right here...it hit straight home as they all started looking at each other as this was a direct threat to not only the lives of the Jinchuuriki but also the military power of their nations should they be captured or killed by the Otsutsuki.
"Where is the body of this Otsutsuki Scout you killed, Mizukage?" asked Lord Mu calmly,
Naruto nodded and looked sideways where he knew several Zetsu's were hiding within the walls and capturing this entire meeting with the Astral Projection technique which they stole from Uzu recently. One way or another, the rest of humanity would learn about the truths being discussed by the military leaders of the world even if the very men and women chose not to reveal this to the public themselves.
He picked up a scroll from his pouch and placed it on the ground, many Kage's tensed but the Tsuchikage and Tobirama reassured them as a puff of smoke was unleashed.
As it cleared, everyone was shocked to see a humanoid corpse appearing before them but that was the extent of the similarity. For this pale skinned male was nearly eight feet tall, had blank white pupilless eyes similar somewhat to a Hyuga, was quite muscular in build and had a nasty hole where his heart was supposed to be indicating that to be the cause of death. What was a clear indicating of this corpse not being related to any human were the strange twin horns on its head.
"Kami..." whispered Inoue in disbelief,
"Fuck" exclaimed Yosuke Meiji, the leader of the Hidden Grass village.
Even the Tsuchikage and Hokage alongside other leaders looked speechless as they stared at the strange corpse making the Mizukage seize the moment as he clenched his fist and thumped it over his chest bringing everyone's attention back to him.
"We may have our differences and have killed each other for decades, but this threat concerns us all! This Scout won't be the last as an army follows in their wake. We need to prepare together because if the Otsutsuki get the tailed beasts then our world is doomed! It won't matter which shinobi nation rules this world then as we all shall die if that happens! I am willing to set aside this war and establish a peace between us all. If it means saving my wife's life who is a Jinchuuriki alongwith those of the other three Jinchuuriki standing right beside her and the other Jinchuuriki in this room
For the future of humanity...I want you to unite and fight with me!" asked Naruto fiercely,
"Neither our nations or our Daimyo's are willing to fight even more wars! It is why we are even having this peace Summit!" said Hanzo Salamander seriously,
"The Samurai do not wish to involve ourselves into the conflict of shinobi" said Mifune calmly,
"You just wish to create more strife between shinobi, their Daimyo's and the civilian populace. By instilling fear within us all against a fictional enemy, you are just trying to buy time to strengthen your forces and crush us all one by one!" yelled Kakuzu defiantly, the leader of the Land of Waterfalls.
Mei couldn't believe what she just heard and was even more horrified when the other Kage's looked at her husband with even more bitterness in their eyes.
Ohnoki jumped on that chance right away without hesitation.
"Lord Kakuzu's right! This man here who claims to be saving humanity has mercilessly butchered four feudal dynasties and conquered several nations for his own power! Do not be deceived by his lies! If we allow him to lead us astray our nations would meet the same fate sooner or later!" argued Ohnoki passionately,
"He is the enemy of the shinobi world!"
Kushina saw true disappointment and sadness appear on her oldest friend's face as he heard the other Kage's fighting against his argument. The only ones who were even trying to defend him were Inoue, Tobirama and Mito but the tide was turning against him quickly as the paranoid leaders banded together.
Ultimately Lord Mu who had been silent until now asked a question which made everyone look at the Mizukage for an answer.
"Should our Daimyo's or people refuse to accept this supposed threat, what then? Do you expect us shinobi to overthrow our feudal lords?" asked Mu straight forwardly,
"I want humanity to be united to face this common threat to us all. No matter the cost"
The Tsuchikage was quite satisfied with that answer as he actually saw real honesty in his opponent's eyes and it made more sense as to why the Mizukage was willing to sue for peace despite being in a condition to continue his war if willing to accept heavy losses which he was capable of.
Ultimately Mu ended up calling it a day and the negotiations to be continued the next day in order to cool down the rising tensions while allowing the Kage's to comprehend what they had just learned.
Mei had been resting in the room which she shared with her husband. It was night time and the Mizukage had gone to check up on the remaining three Jinchuuriki accompanying them leaving her alone to stare at Iwagakure through the lone window they had.
She had again spotted the woman her husband had an affair with in the past, the one she had known as Kaori the mercenary who in truth had been a Spartan survivor named Kushina loyal to Uzu. She had spotted the woman as one of the Uzukage's bodyguard looking sadly at Naruto but not doing anything more...Mei didn't know how to feel about that.
More importantly, she had seen her mother in law in person. A woman supposed to be dead but brought back to life thanks to Naruto's co-operation with Madara himself.
A knock on her door interrupted her thoughts and upon opening it she was left even more speechless when she saw Inoue Namikaze looking at her with a smile.
"Mei, is it?" asked Inoue in a kind voice,
"Yes" answered the auburn haired woman hesitantly, even as she gestured the older woman to step inside.
Not only was Inoue the Second Uzukage but also Naruto's mother, watching her today had made it absolutely clear to Mei that Naruto may have inherited his tactical brilliance in warfare and politics from Tobirama alongside some of his powers like Water Style, but his looks and personality alongside his infamous Hirashin technique was something he got from this woman.
"I have wanted to meet you for sometime. Judging from your look, I guess my son told you the truth and what he is planning somewhat atleast" said Inoue honestly,
"He has" acknowledged Mei,
''I wanted to thank you personally for sticking by his side despite everything that has happened. It speaks volumes about your character as a person and for making him a father and me a grandmother...even if I never got to see my grandchildren as of yet" said Inoue sincerely, the last part uttered with true regret.
"My mother died long ago and I never thought our children would get the love of a grandmother until you came back. I would be glad to make you meet them sometime. As for the rest, I married Naruto and I am sticking by his side no matter what happens. That is my duty as his wife and I truly believe he wants what is best for all of humanity. There is no dishonor in following someone like that despite his past and truth" confessed Mei with a smile,
"If you don't mind, I would like to get to know you better" requested Inoue, making Mei's smile even more wider.
"I would like that very much"
Hiruzen Sarutobi secretly entered into an isolated room to find the Second Tsuchikage and Ohnoki waiting for him as planned. The Third Hokage looked quite tense even as the other two men gestured him to have a seat and offered refreshments which he declined.
"Of all the things, we hadn't expected the Mizukage to say what he had today" said Lord Mu seriously,
"He's lying, Lord Second. Naruto Namikaze is a devious man!" replied Ohnoki fiercely,
"On that we can agree. Now that you guys know his full truth...do you truly want to trust such a man?" questioned Hiruzen straight forwardly,
He had made a decision alongside Danzo post secret consultations with the Fire Daimyo after their nation lost contact with Uzushiogakure. Nobody else from Konoha including Tobirama or Mito were aware of this development but judging from how disinterested Tobirama had been during the entire affair with Uzu's coup made Hiruzen seriously question his mentor's conflicted loyalty towards his son and to Konoha at the same time.
Tobirama had even advocated them to stay out of that entire affair despite knowing Naruto had every reason to overthrow Hanzo Uzumaki because of their tainted past. For all his faults, Hanzo Uzumaki had been a staunch ally of Konoha and his loss affected their nation severely.
Maybe it was Tobirama's way of apologizing to his son for being unable to save Ino Namikaze's life and for Konoha's lies about her death, an admirable decision as a father but not in the interests of their nation.
That decision had consequences for everyone and was the point where Hiruzen and Danzo had to brief the Fire Daimyo about Naruto Namikaze's real truth and how it compromised Tobirama Senju and his clan greatly.
Already Naruto had destroyed four feudal dynasties and was posing a continued threat to the remaining Daimyo's including Hiruzen's own, something which greatly worried the Fire Daimyo who didn't want his own rule and family to meet a similar fate as that of the Water Daimyo.
After what Naruto did to Uzu-his own nation for the sake of his twisted justice, Danzo had persuaded Hiruzen that a man like that was no true shinobi and sooner or later he would harm Konoha and the Fire nation for being unable to save his beloved wife and lying to him about her death...
"You're right. A Spy can never be trusted, especially one who orchestrated a coup in his own nation" agreed Ohnoki,
"I am still interested in learning about this Otsutsuki threat" said Mu honestly,
"We shall once we have dealt with Naruto Namikaze who poses an existential threat to us all. The Fire Daimyo wishes we deal with him together swiftly" said Hiruzen seriously,
"So does the Earth Daimyo. The other Daimyo's won't raise any objection to that as well since Kirigakure is becoming too strong for everyone" agreed Mu calmly,
"Lord Hiruzen...I don't think Tobirama Senju would be happy with these secret negotiations that you are carrying out with us once he learns of this" warned Ohnoki, making the Sarutobi clan head grimace but nod.
"I am well aware. However, he was the one that taught me that nation comes before all, even my own teacher. More importantly, I answer to the Fire Daimyo as you do with your own. Tobirama alongside the Senju clan are too close to this matter which is why we had to do what's necessary for Konoha's future. It is true that we have been enemies in the past but at the very least you do not wish to destroy the shinobi world and overthrow the Daimyo's of the world" explained Hiruzen honestly,
Mu had to agree with that as he had clearly seen a frightening resolve in Naruto Namikaze's eyes this morning, that man would burn down the entire world in order to achieve his own dreams.
"Our forces have already moved in positions near to Kirigakure. Once we have dealt with the Mizukage, we shall take care of his arrogant nation should they still try to intervene" said Mu without hesitation,
"So have our own. We'll need a proper execution for all of it" warned Hiruzen,
"We will. Our men know the strategy, so do yours. Let's put an end to this guy right here" promised Ohnoki,
Hiruzen looked at the hand being offered by the Second Tsuchikage himself and shook it without any regrets.
You left us no choice, Naruto.
The Fourth Mizukage had been sitting in his predecessor's room with the two men sharing a smoke while overlooking Iwagakure from their balcony.
"I don't trust these men, Naruto. They'll betray Kirigakure as soon as they get a chance" warned Yagura as he exhaled a huge puff of smoke in the air,
"Are the preparations I asked you to make completed?" asked the Fourth Mizukage calmly, as he too exhaled smoke in the air from his cigarette.
"They are''
Upon hearing that confirmation, Naruto merely nodded making Yagura glance at the blonde man curiously.
"They're right to fear you. Your tenacity even makes me nervous sometimes" said Yagura honestly,
"The things I do and will continue to are all for the sake of humanity including Kirigakure. The only way to win is to Fight, Yagura" answered Naruto without hesitation,
''On that we can agree" replied the Third Mizukage somberly,
They were both interrupted when a new person arrived in their room secretly and looked directly at the Fourth Mizukage.
"They are making their move, Lord Fourth. Hiruzen Sarutobi has betrayed you''
Naruto clenched his fist as the White Zetsu clone made that dreaded revelation making his worst fears come true. Madara had warned him about this but he had naively hoped that he could rally all these nations.
That humanity would truly unite when faced with an external foe that threatened its very existence.
''So Disappointing'' whispered Yagura with a sigh, which was exactly what Naruto felt deep within his heart as a murderous glare arrived in his now reddened gaze.
Yagura didn't miss a glimpse of that dreaded monster rising within the man before him. One that had never surrendered to the darkness of the shinobi world and kept on fighting.
"The only one who can save humanity now is you, Fourth Mizukage"
White Zetsu's words made Naruto clench his fists as a fearless determination arrived in his hardened gaze.
I am sorry, Ino. I tried doing what you wanted me to...but now I must do what's necessary.
(Kirigakure)
General Abe had just finished the Council Session to discuss about their hidden village's defenses with Lord Minase Terumi, Lord Yuki and the Anbu Commander now that their legions had marched off to their borders in order to act swiftly against their enemies should things take a turn for the worst at the Kage Summit.
Before the four men responsible for Kiri's defense in the absence of their Kage could leave for their respective homes, an Anbu walked into the room.
Lord Minase Terumi couldn't help but frown when he saw the man was from the Kaguya clan as things had still not truly been amicable between the clans that sided with Naruto Namikaze during the civil war and the ninja clans like the Kaguya who had sided with Yagura Karatachi.
Even if their members were now pardoned by the Fourth Mizukage himself for their service in the campaign against Kumogakure, one couldn't help but wonder if atleast some of the Kaguya were still secretly loyal to Yagura.
"Why are you here, Kimimaro?" asked the Anbu Commander seriously to his subordinate,
The Kaguya saluted all four leaders before procuring a scroll from his pouch and placed it on the table nearest to them.
"Lord Yagura asked me to reveal this to you in person. He said it concerns the safety of our nation and its future" said Kimimaro fearlessly even as everyone except General Abe glared at him murderously.
"How dare you listen to a traitor like Yagura- An Enemy of our nation. After the pardon Lord Naruto gave to your clan...is this how you repay his generosity?" asked Lord Minase furiously, and was unnerved when he received a cold glare from the Kaguya clan member who remained defiant.
"Who do you think is the true enemy, my lords?"
General Abe felt a shiver run down his spine and his heart skip a beat upon hearing those ominous words. Even as Lord Minase, Lord Yuki and the Anbu Commander moved to arrest the Kaguya Anbu- the pale skinned man simply pointed his finger at the scroll placed on the table making the former feudal general move towards it.
Even as Kimimaro Kaguya was grabbed roughly and restrained he kept looking at General Abe who opened the scroll and looked back at the Anbu in horror making the man smile in satisfaction as his next words shook everything the older man had ever believed in.
"This is our real enemy"
General Abe's hands started shaking when he spotted the face of the Fourth Mizukage on an Uzushiogakure dossier that unveiled the greatest betrayal of their nation.
(Next Day)
Tobirama and Mito were quite confused when they were informed that the Kage Summit would be resumed in the evening instead of early morning. What was even more worrying for the Senju leader and his sister-in-law was the absence of Hiruzen since yesterday post the Kage Summit.
The two of them had tried meeting Naruto and Inoue, the former had declined their request while the latter had been spending time with Mei Terumi and had also declined.
It had left Tobirama and Mito frustrated but they kept their composure until they met Hiruzen again in the evening today. On being asked about his whereabouts, the Third Hokage merely suggested Ohnoki had offered him a personal tour of their village's gardens.
Before Tobirama could question his student about such a suspicious answer, Hiruzen reminded them it was time for the Kage Summit to be resumed forcing them to quickly join him in reaching the venue on time.
As soon as Tobirama entered the room alongside the other Kage's, he didn't know why but he felt something was off.
There was a tension in the air that he couldn't describe and everyone seemed on edge which was understandable considering the events of yesterday. Naruto had truly taken a gamble by revealing the Otsutsuki threat and only time would tell how it would turn out.
Speaking of the said Kage, he arrived a few moments later and unlike his cocky attitude yesterday...the Fourth Mizukage had changed his approach and seemed quite humble as he actually met each and every Kage alongside every Jinchuuriki, shaking hands with everyone of them and even going as far as to apologize to them all for the events of yesterday which surprised nearly everyone.
He even came and did the same with Tobirama and Mito.
"I'm truly sorry for this mess, Lord Tobirama and Lady Mito'' said Naruto sincerely, looking at Mito with a regretful gaze and before Tobirama or Mito could say something, Ohnoki requested everyone to gain their seats in order to start the meeting.
The Fourth Mizukage complied and did what was requested even as his supporters flanked him protectively.
"We learned quite a lot yesterday. A day of revealing secrets and learning truths, I would say. Since we are on this path, I would like to reveal one little truth about our dear Mizukage who wants to save us all from the Otsutsuki. With your permission, Lord Mu?" asked Ohnoki with a cunning smile, earning a nod from the Second Tsuchikage.
Tobirama and Mito both froze in horror upon hearing that and their fears turned into reality when Ohnoki then turned towards Hiruzen Sarutobi himself with a cold smirk.
"May we, Lord Hokage?"
Inoue Namikaze alongside Commander Reika and Kushina realized what was happening when they saw Hiruzen give a grave nod making the three kunoichi extremely tense.
"Saru?" asked Tobirama in disbelief, and his heart truly sank when Hiruzen looked away guiltily.
"I'm sorry, Sensei. This is for Konoha's sake, the Fire Daimyo wishes for it as do I and Danzo after what happened with Uzushiogakure and in the past. You and the Senju clan are too close to this man to make an objective decision for the sake of our nation" whispered Hiruzen somberly,
Tobirama felt as if someone had destroyed his world in an instant and it hurt more than anything for it was his own students and feudal lord who had made this decision.
He looked at his son in horror to find the man sitting stoically in his seat even as Ohnoki did the unthinkable.
"You see our dear Mizukage here is a trained liar, A Spy of Uzushiogakure. His true name is Minato Namikaze, a former Spartan Blackops Captain that fought against Kumogakure in the First Great Ninja War. His incompetence got his comrades killed which made him swore a vow of revenge against the Great Nations and every other shinobi village. He swore to eliminate the Feudal system whom he considered to be responsible for these wars. He jumped at the chance to infiltrate Kirigakure, fooled everyone there to actually become Mizukage in order to complete his personal mission" explained Ohnoki in a cold voice, as he summoned dossier's shared by Hiruzen on every Kage's desk including the Uzukage herself.
Mei's legs started shaking as her worst fears were coming true right before the entire shinobi world. This was exactly what Naruto had warned her against...but she had not listened to him and had insisted to keep his secrets...their children...
"Naruto Namikaze launched a brutal war and destroyed four feudal dynasties alongside Kumogakure whom he hated for personal reasons using Kirigakure as a pawn in his scheme. He even fooled Konoha to form an alliance in order to continue his ambitions...but the First Uzukage-Hanzo Uzumaki realized his true intentions. He tried to stop him and was overthrown and imprisoned by this man. He even replaced Hanzo Uzumaki with his own mother...isn't that right, Inoue Namikaze?" asked Ohnoki with a satisfied smile,
The feeling was shortlived when he saw the woman merely giving him a cold glance, the same as her son who had strangely remained silent.
Tobirama was quite surprised when he saw no outburst from any of the other Kage's upon hearing all of this. They looked furious and ready to kill but not surprised at all. It was as if they were prepared for this and realized just where Hiruzen must have been all this time.
"This man wants to destroy the shinobi world and feudal system. He wants to rule this world himself, he would have continued this war if all of us had not gotten together to negotiate peace. Now he tries to gain our trust by making us believe this imaginary Otsutsuki threat, but make no mistake he would betray us the moment he gets a chance. Just like he did with his own nation and Kage" said Ohnoki decisively,
The Second Tsuchikage got up from his seat when his student finished revealing the carefully crafted truth that Hiruzen had shared. Lord Mu had to admit the young brat or his comrade Danzo were quite devious, they had revealed the truth in a way which completely protected Tobirama and the Senju clan, even painted Uzushiogakure and Kirigakure as victims of Naruto Namikaze's treachery.
Mu knew the real truth but he wanted to use it at a later time once he had destroyed Naruto and Kirigakure if they still decided to fight for their treacherous Kage, not that he had much hope for that outcome. For now, he was more than satisfied to see the helpless look on Tobirama's face as his son was now being surrounded by all the Kage's of the world even as Iwagakure's Anbu Blackops Squads entered the room in force.
For now, the Tsuchikage was more than satisfied to co-operate with Konoha and later once he had dealt with Naruto and Kirigakure, the Leaf Nation would be next.
Now that he had seen the division in their ranks, it was possible to crush them in time and establish Iwagakure's dominance over the shinobi world.
There was still a way left for him to win this war by pitting his enemies against each other, and the greatest irony was that it was Hiruzen who gave him the means to seize this victory.
"Let's unite as one my fellow Kage's to deal with this traitor!" urged Mu passionately, making every Kage except Inoue, Tobirama, Mito and Naruto to get up from their seats with determination burning in their eyes.
Ohnoki now leading the Anbu's of his nation pointed a finger straight towards the silent Mizukage.
"We have established Anti-teleportation seals across our entire village, Mizukage. You can't escape from here, Surrender peacefully and we shall be lenient towards your people including your wife" proposed Ohnoki,
He was pleased when his words finally managed to make Naruto get up from his seat peacefully. Mei tried to move towards him but froze on receiving a harsh glare, even Tobirama and Mito couldn't help but watch in horrifying silence as the blonde Kage walked towards Lord Mu in a subdued manner.
Many younger shinobi in the room couldn't believe what they were witnessing as it was the first time many had even seen the legendary Fourth Mizukage in person.
"So that's Naruto Namikaze...'' whispered one of the Iwa Anbu curiously, even as he and his fellow comrades led by Ohnoki and the other Kage's surrounded the Mizukage.
"Heh, Lord Tsuchikage and Ohnoki-sama really cornered him up today" agreed one of his comrades,
"He's done for"
Inoue bitterly clenched her fists as she heard what was being said even as her eldest son now stood before the Second Tsuchikage who looked at him with a judgmental but satisfied gaze.
Mu was however surprised when the Fourth Mizukage offered his hand and actually smiled.
''Well played, Lord Mu. You too, Hiruzen" said Naruto calmly, making Hiruzen grimace and Mu to reluctantly shake the offered hand as a final courtesy to a vanquished enemy.
"Fourth Mizukage-Naruto Namikaze...do you have any last words?"
Even as Mu asked that decisive question, he couldn't help but frown when he saw Yagura-the former Mizukage smirk deviously. His eyes widened in horror when Naruto's eyes turned blood red and the man's next words horrified every person in the room.
"It's time, Madara"
Author's Notes: End of chapter.
I guess this is the biggest cliffhanger of this story so far, can already see quite a few pitchforks from you guys headed my way, hehe!
Hope you guys liked it.
I have waited for years to write this chapter and had dreamed of publishing this ever since I started this story. Many of you asked me quite a few times as to when the real truth about Naruto/Minato's past shall come out...well it was all for this moment!
For those who still didn't listen to the music recommendation while reading the Second half of this chapter...try it, you might get a different feeling like I did while writing this!
Next chapter will take sometime to write but damn am I excited to write the shit that's about to happen from now onwards!
Would really love to hear your thoughts on this chapter guys, so please review!
In particular, I want to understand how you guys have felt throughout Naruto's journey from the beginning to this point and beyond.
Until Next Time,
Blackwolf501
Next Chapter: Declaration of War